Caring for your wound

Types of surgery

Depending on what type of surgery you've had, you may be advised to avoid swimming for some time, even after your wound has healed. Below are some examples of what might be advised, but your surgeon, GP or physiotherapist will be able to give you a more detailed answer.

cornea transplant – avoid swimming for at least one month and until you have clear advice it's safe; wear goggles to protect your eye from an impact injury and do not dive in

hip replacement – you should feel back to normal after the first 8 to 12 weeks, when you can return to your usual activities, such as swimming, but some surgeons advise against breaststroke when swimming